Table of Contents
Cherry Blossoms at Kodaiji Temple
Basic Information
| Cherry blossom spot | Kodaiji Temple |
| Best time to see the cherry blossoms | Late March – Early April |
| Number of cherry trees | Approx. 50 (weeping cherry, mountain cherry, someiyoshino, etc.) |
| Opening hours | 9:00-17:00 |
| Admission fee | Adults 600 yen, Junior high and high school students 250 yen |
| Lighting up | Yes (special nighttime viewing in spring) |
| Parking lot | Available (parking fees apply) |
| Location | 526 Shimogawara-cho, Kodaiji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0825 |
| TEL: 075-561-9966 | 075-561-9966 |
| Official website | https://www.kodaiji.com/ |
Features and Highlights
- Kyoto’s representative cherry blossom viewing spot
- Weeping cherry trees bloom in the dry landscape garden in front of the Hojo.
- The garden was created in the early Edo period (1603-1867) and features a pond garden with a circular path around it.
- Dotted with historical buildings and remains related to Hideyoshi
The giant weeping cherry tree in the front garden of the Hojo is a symbol of spring at Kodaiji Temple. This cherry tree, which retains the appearance of the Momoyama Period, is said to have been planted by Nene, and is now in its fourth generation.
The garden in front of the Hojo, where weeping cherry trees bloom, is a dry landscape garden called “Hashinniwa,” created in the early Edo period. The refined space of white sand and stones enhances the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
The Hashin-teien garden changes its design every year, so it can be enjoyed every year!
Event Information
Spring Night Special Viewing
From March 15, 2024 (Fri.) to May 6 ( Sat.), the temple will be illuminated from 17:00 to 21:30, allowing visitors to enjoy the fantastic beauty of the cherry blossoms at night.
How to get there
To get to Kodaiji Temple, take the 206 city bus from JR Kyoto Station to Higashiyama Yasui bus stop, a 7-minute walk.
Popular nearby spots
Nene-no-michi
This stone-paved path leading to Kodaiji Temple offers beautiful rows of cherry blossom trees during cherry blossom season.
Maruyama Park
This park is within walking distance from Kodaiji Temple and boasts approximately 650 cherry trees in bloom in spring.
Kiyomizu Temple
One of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, the entire mountain turns into cherry blossom colors during the cherry blossom season. The special viewing held only in the fall and spring is also a must-see.
Conclusion
Kodaiji Temple is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. The weeping cherry tree in front of the Hojo, the historical buildings, and the beautiful garden are just a few of the highlights of the temple. Another attraction is the special nighttime viewing in spring, when you can enjoy the fantastic beauty of the illuminated nighttime cherry blossoms.
When sightseeing in Kyoto, be sure to visit Kodaiji Temple and enjoy the spectacular spring scenery.
